With an aim to increase the uptake of mobile Internet on its network, mobile operator Aircel has introduced a low cost data plan, Pocket Internet 24 (PI-24). The plan, priced at Rs. 24 offers 100 MB of data usage and offers a validity of 30 days.

Beyond 100MB usage, customers can buy the same pack again or switch to a plan that offers more data volume. At this time, the plan is only available for 2G customers but Aircel says that it intends to extend a similar plan to 3G users as well.

The company says that the plan targets first time mobile Internet users, offering them adequate data to help familiarize with popular search engine and social networking websites.

Anupam Vasudev, Chief Marketing Officer, Aircel, said, "India has the third largest internet users in the world and is rapidly adding 70 million mobile internet users a year. It is ironic that despite this exponential growth, a majority of the Indian population has never experienced internet on their mobile phones. These customers have used internet in cyber cafes and desktops but have never experienced internet on their phones due to limited awareness and knowledge of mobile internet. With Pocket Internet 24, we aim to tap this segment and drive internet adoption among first time internet users."

He added, "Pocket Internet 24 is developed keeping in mind the two key issues of a first time user - time to learn and the fear of overspending on data. The product will offer higher validity at lesser price to ensure ample time for the customers to learn and understand the usage of internet on mobile."

Pocket Internet 24 will be available in North East, Jammu & Kashmir, Orissa, Kolkata and Rest of West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Bihar. The plan will be rolled out in rest of the circles on April 24, 2013.